A member of the Stellenbosch University (SU) Student Representative Council (SRC) is currently in police custody over an alleged gender-based violence incident. This is according to a statement by the SRC released on their official Instagram account.
A second student from SU is also currently in custody. This is according to a statement by Tertia Kruger, director of communication at SU.
The Stellenbosch South African Police Service station, where a Stellenbosch University Student Representative Council (SRC) member is currently in custody after an alleged gender-based violence incident. This is according to a statement by the SRC on their official Instagram account. PHOTO: Ishmael Mabena
Different versions of events
“[The university understands] that there are different versions [of] the events in question, and that the matter is currently under active investigation by SAPS, with two arrests reportedly having been made,” said Kruger.
“The matter has been formally reported to the university, and in line with established protocols, the necessary procedures are underway,” said Kruger. “The university is aware of sensitivity arising from what appears, on the available information, to be a [gender-based violence] related incident that was reported to [SAPS].”
The SRC has since referred the matter to the SU Equality Unit, and the SRC member has been “temporarily suspended from the SRC with immediate effect pending the outcomes of the investigations by both the Equality Unit and [SAPS]”, according to the statement released by the SRC.
It is believed that a member of Stellenbosch University’s Student Representative Council (SRC) will appear at the Stellenbosch Magistrate’s court on 5 May. According to a statement by the SRC, the SRC member was allegedly involved in a gender-based violence incident. PHOTO: Ishmael Mabena
Meanwhile, a second SRC member, who is reportedly also involved in the matter, has been temporarily suspended from all SRC duties and responsibilities pending the outcomes of a review by Student Imbizo, according to the statement.
“It is important to note that these processes, which rely on formal submissions and include gathering statements and understanding the full circumstances, take time and require careful attention to detail, as well as the continued cooperation of stakeholders,” said Kruger.
The Centre for Student Life and Learning (CSLL) is providing support for all students involved and affected by the matter, while SU will continue its internal processes and cooperate with SAPS, according to Kruger.
This is a developing story.